We are diamond plus members for RCCL, but got tired of same ports. Carnival had 2 ports we never visited, so we thought we’d give it a go.
Embarkation:. Since we had no status, I thought embarkation would be nightmare. Couldn’t have been easier. We had “appointments” for boarding, (11:00-11.30, 12:00-12:30). Could not board if you were early. Had to wait longer to board if you were late. How come this was never thought of before! From suitcases drop off to enjoying first Fosters on board: 15 minutes!
Cabins: Nothing stood out about the cabins. Always booked balcony room. Difference? You chose either morning or afternoon service from attendant. Really! I checked off ‘both’ which was an option. We’d give our attendant a C: never introduce himself to us: I had to seek him out on first day.
Wanted to go to the boardwalk 15 minutes from port. $50 taxi for the both of us. Didn’t seem too extravagant, but we got a late start. Stayed at pool near port. Free. Average. Swim up bar was full. Attached restaurant was good yet crowded.
Walked to both forts. Great histories of each! Just $7/person for entrance into both forts. Had to walk about 3-4 miles between forts and back to the ship, but well worth it. Can also take a taxi if desired.
Nice beach next to port. But nobody told us that the green umbrellas was for passengers and was free. But the chairs by the water was $25 for both umbrella and 2 chairs. Ate at Margaritaville. Had a pool as well. Wish I had known Jacks Shack was walking distance from port along beach.